Breaking: First ten names of 2017 Ballon d'Or released

There are some huge surprises in the list released by France Football

Karim Benzema has surprisingly received more votes than the likes of Coutinho and Mertens

The Ballon d'Or ceremony is underway and it has already pulled off a few major surprises in the first few names it has released. Like every year, France Football and L'Equipe (the organisation which runs the Ballon d'Or award ceremony) are releasing the names in batches of 5.

Here is the initial 30 man shortlist who were considered for this prestigious award:

Coutinho and Mertens have received the lowest votes followed by Dzeko, Hummels and Jan Oblak. What is very surprising is the fact that Karim Benzema who has been in really questionable form has managed to finish ahead of some good performers like Coutinho, Mertens and Dzeko.

Italy's defensive rock Bonucci is tied at 21 with Dortmund and Gabon sharpshooter Aubameyang. Do you think these rankings have been right so far? Let us know in the comments section.